The Australian Government is soliciting public feedback on the potential advantages and implications of future offshore wind development in the Indian Ocean off the Bunbury region in Western Australia,” said a government spokesperson.
“The proposed area, situated at least 20 kilometers from the coastline, possesses favorable wind conditions and relatively shallow waters, covering approximately 7674 square kilometers. It is positioned off Cape Naturaliste and Bunbury, with its closest point 20 kilometers from shore, and 36 kilometers from Busselton,” the spokesperson added.
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“We believe that the proposed Bunbury zone holds significant promise for offshore electricity generation due to its high-speed winds, proximity to major energy consumers, and the potential to support up to 20 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity,” they continued.
“We are pleased to announce that Western Australia is now the sixth region under consideration for large-scale offshore wind projects across the country,” the spokesperson stated. “Previously identified areas include zones off Victoria's Gippsland coast and the NSW Hunter region.”
“In addition to Western Australia, initiatives in the Southern Ocean Region spanning Victoria and South Australia, along with the NSW Illawarra region, have advanced past the initial community consultation phase,” they added.
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“Recognizing the need for collaboration among various marine stakeholders, future offshore wind projects are required to coexist with other marine activities. Input from the public will play a crucial role in informing the Minister for Climate Change and Energy's decision regarding the suitability of the proposed area for offshore wind development,” the spokesperson highlighted.
“The consultation window is set to close on Friday, May 3, 2024,” they concluded.
“Copenhagen Energy, a Danish renewable energy firm, has welcomed the consultation process, deeming it a significant step forward in the advancement of offshore wind power in Western Australia,” said Joy Francis-Hayes, Development Manager for Copenhagen Energy in Australia.
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“We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the development of offshore wind power in WA,” Francis-Hayes expressed. “Our proposed Leeuwin Offshore Wind Farm project is ideally situated within the designated zone outlined by the Federal Government, and its proximity to existing transmission infrastructure provides a strategic advantage.”
“Despite the progress made, there is still much work ahead in the journey towards offshore wind development in Western Australia,” Francis-Hayes emphasized. “The consultation period represents just the beginning of a comprehensive process, and we remain committed to securing planning and license approvals.”
